Research Project Support on Innovative Partnerships for Gender Equality

The Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) is a pioneering NGO founded in 2000 to promote the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) among women and girls. WOUGNET envisions an inclusive and just society where women and girls are empowered as active participants using digital innovation and technology to foster Uganda’s sustainable development. WOUGNET operates a community of practice in collaboration with like-minded partners.

In the current global context, the work of Women of Uganda-Network is especially critical. Uganda faces challenges such as limited internet access in rural areas, high costs of connectivity, and persistent gender gaps in digital literacy. Globally, the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and digital economies has created new opportunities but also risks of exclusion for those without adequate skills or access. WOUGNET’s initiatives—ranging from digital literacy training to advocacy for gender-sensitive digital policies—help women in Uganda navigate these challenges, ensuring they are not left behind in the digital transformation. Similarly, many organizations are facing new challenges given a shrinking donor landscape. This research will support a strategy to diversify support and expand relationships with the private sector, tech institutes, universities and other potential partners strengthen the work of WOUGNET as a Centre of Excellence on Gender Equality, Digital Innovation and Technology.

Our aim is to map the educational institutes, philanthropic, corporate foundations and private sector actors active in the region, identifying key opportunities for engagement on the gender equality and women’s empowerment agenda, and develop strategies for initiating and maintaining partnerships. This research will provide critical insights into the development funding landscape in East Africa, specially in Uganda, and will help to identify strategies for diversifying WOUGNET's funding partnerships and well as opportunities to collaborate on initiatives related to gender equality, digital innovation and technology.